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Logan County Commissioners John Bayliss, Dustin Wickersham and Joe Antram took action Tuesday to commit $100,000 in economic development funding for a new show barn at the Logan County Fairground.
“If this idea develops into a multi-use facility, it could be used to further economic activity at the fairground,” Bayliss said.
“We haven’t been able to step up and help with the fair board as much as we have wanted to in past years,” Wickersham said. “This is a one-time thing we can do.”
The commissioners have been meeting with fair leaders this year and among the priorities is an additional show arena.
How far the county goes in developing the facility will depend on how much money is raised, the commissioners noted.
The fair board has committed $30,000 to the project and anyone wishing to contribute can contact fair board members or President Christie Barns.
She is excited the commissioners have provided a generous seed fund for the building.
“I think it is a fantastic opportunity to expand offerings at the fairground and provide quality experiences for the children of Logan County,” she said.
The commissioners agree.
“This will help the youth of Logan County,” Wickersham said. “It’s truly all about the kids.”
Development of the 80-by-140-foot steel structure could occur in phases, starting off with open sides and a dirt floor or it may end up as an enclosed year round facility that could host a variety of events.
“The possibilities could be endless,” Bayliss said.
Sales tax receipts have grown in the past couple years and parts of the local tax fund the county’s economic development efforts.
Conservative spending practices also have the county in a position to participate in the project.
If the plans can be developed and a site selected for the new building, construction could start yet this year once competitive bids are awarded, the commissioners said.